In Linda Marie Smith’s newest album, Mearra – Selkie from the Sea, we find a bittersweet story of love, loss and transformation. The story begins with Mearra, a young Selkie maiden, falling in love with Ian, a lonely fisherman entranced by her beauty. She leaves her life in the sea, married Ian and begins a family. But following traditional Selkie myth, Mearra must return to the sea after 7 years. Love strengthens Mearra, Ian and their children during this difficult separation, knowing that they are still a family, even when separated by land and sea.
Mearra – Selkie from the Sea combines so many things I enjoy and want to share with my children: Celtic lore, storytelling at its finest, music that really pulls at my heart. Linda’s voice is smooth and mystical. She invites our imaginations to bring us into the world of Mearra and the Selkie myth. We have enjoyed this album during craft time, dinner-making time, and after-school snack time.
Linda Marie Smith reflects, “As a child I was captivated by fairy tales and folklore. I loved being transported to other worlds where the impossible was possible. These mystical adventures fired my imagination, which is why I think I eventually became a songwriter. Folklore involves fantastic people or animals and brings our attention to things we calue most highly, fear most deeply, and hope for most ardently. My spirit and childlike innocence were rekindled while doing research for Mearra – Selkie from the Sea. The Selkie myth inspired and challenged me to shed my own skin, reveal my true self, and boldly express my heartfelt desires.”
Mearra – Selkie from the Sea is available today on iTunes, CDBaby, and Amazon. You can learn more about Linda Marie Smith and her music at her website, and connect with her on Facebook.
How do you share folklore with your little one?
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